California-based El Pollo Loco Inc., which has 31 restaurants in Texas, is seeking franchisees to help it enter the state's markets of El Paso, Lubbock, Corpus Christi and Odessa/Midland.

"We believe there are terrific opportunities to continue to grow our brand, not just in markets where we already have a strong presence, but also in new markets where our distinctive menu is sure to appeal to consumers," Chief Development Officer Brian Carmichall said in a company press release. "Our focus over the next few years will be on expanding our chain with more convenient locations and quality franchise partners."

The cost to open a unit is between $770,000 and $2,097,000, and franchisees may choose between two restaurant formats.

One version features a takeout window, a dual drive-thru, curbside pickup parking spaces and patio seating without a dining room. The other has a dual drive thru, curbside pickup parking spaces, as well as a "smaller-than-typical" dining room that opens to a large patio through garage style doors.

Both prototypes share an enhanced digitized experience — including "Pollo To Go" cubbies for mobile to-go and delivery orders, digital menu boards and GPS-enabled curbside pick-up — integrated with the company's mobile app, Carmichall said.

"This expansion announcement and impending unit growth is sure to appeal to the growing number of consumers looking for the type of food options El Pollo Loco has to offer; and experienced franchise owners with the desire to be part of a strong franchisee family," he said.

El Pollo Loco has 478 restaurants in six states, with 282 of those owned and operated by franchisees.

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